What to do with the Montage

Sure, there are plenty of people with plenty to be unhappy about

concerning the Montage Resort and Spa. Lagunans fought for years to

keep this mammoth undertaking off our coast. But it’s here. So, what

do we do now?

One, we take advantage of any funds generated for the city. Enjoy

whatever the estimated $4 million a year might bring.

Second, visit the park. It was hard fought, cost a bit more than

we expected and is in a prime location. So, at least enjoy it.

Third, remember that those working at the resort are not the

enemy. They are doing their job of bringing some moments of

relaxation to their visitors -- along with trying to encourage

tourism in Laguna.

And fourth, keep an eye on them. It’s a big business in a fragile

environment. They already committed a bit of a faux pas with the

power-washing incident. Workers power-washed the hotel clean early

this month, but instead of the water being properly contained, it

washed into the ocean.

Some are quite miffed that they received a fine of only $100. The

thing is, they said it was a mistake -- the diversion system was not

operating -- and it was the first time. The time to be miffed, and

more, is the second infraction. If the operators show a disdain for

the very beach they plan to make money on, then there’s a problem.

We’ll have none of that. We have enough beach closures as it is

without any help from careless hotel owners.

But for now, one mistake does not warrant a war. One mistake means

there’s still a good chance we can live peacefully along side our

new, albeit unsought and controversial neighbor.